Authorities say at least 12 people have been killed by a fireworks explosion in central Mexico.

The Puebla state government reports that five of the dead are children and 30 other people are injured.

Graphic: AFP

A government statement Tuesday says the blast took place the previous night in the town of San Isidro, in the Chilchotla municipality.

It says the fireworks were being stored in a home behind a church ahead of a May 15 religious celebration. A firecracker launched by someone outside landed on the stash, setting off the deadly blast and destroying the home.

Fireworks are a mainstay of holiday celebrations in Mexico, and accidental blasts are occasionally deadly. On Dec. 20 a particularly large explosion at a fireworks market outside Mexico City killed dozens of people.

Privacy Settings

This site uses functional cookies and external scripts to improve your experience. Which cookies and scripts are used and how they impact your visit is specified on the left. You may change your settings at any time. Your choices will not impact your visit.

NOTE: These settings will only apply to the browser and device you are currently using.